MD: GOVERNOR INDUCTS 2 FARM FAMILIES INTO MARYLAND’S AGRICULTURE HALL OF FAME

News Date February 16, 2010

Governor Martin O’Malley today joined more than 800 agricultural leaders and legislators from across the State to induct two farming families into the Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame.  John A. Prouty & Family of Calvert County and Mehrle H. & Thelma Ramsburg Jr. of Frederick County became the 38th and 39th recipients of the prestigious recognition during the annual Maryland Agriculture Dinner at Michael’s Eighth Avenue in Glen Burnie.  The first-ever Smart, Green and Growing Awards were also presented during the event. Department of Agriculture Secretary Buddy Hance joined Governor O’Malley during the presentations. 

“It is my honor to stand beside the Proutys and the Ramsburgs tonight to recognize their outstanding accomplishments, commitment and contributions to agriculture, family, resource conservation and community,” said Governor Martin O’Malley. “In honoring these two families, who represent more than a century of farming in Maryland, we also honor the dedication and hard work of every farmer in this state. We count on their continued partnership as together we shape a more sustainable agriculture to keep Maryland smart, green and growing.”

“All of Maryland agriculture has benefited from the contributions of the Prouty and Ramsburg families, and we are honored to welcome them into the Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame,” said Maryland Secretary of Agriculture Buddy Hance.  “Through their efforts, both families have made significant accomplishments to advance agriculture, support their communities, preserve farmland, protect the environment and encourage young people to get involved in farming.”

During his remarks this evening, Governor O’Malley focused on the outstanding leadership, stewardship and accomplishments of the agricultural community. He highlighted his strident efforts with the federal government to support the agriculture industry in times of economic need and to ensure fairness with federal regulations. The Governor also reiterated his support for the agricultural community through personal involvement and policy initiatives as well as his belief in the vital necessity of a thriving agricultural industry to the health of the State, its citizens, the economy and the environment.

Sponsored by the Maryland Department of Agriculture, the Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame was created in 1991 by then Governor William Donald Schaefer to honor agricultural leaders who exemplify high standards of achievement and commitment to the industry and their communities.

Because of the Maryland Department of Agriculture’s preservation, promotion, regulation, education and service activities, the citizens of Maryland can expect a safe and healthy environment and food supply, fairness in the marketplace, and that agriculture remains a strong economic force in the State.  Established in 1973, MDA is celebrating over 35 years of service to the citizens of Maryland.

Testimonials about each family are available at: www.mda.state.md.us/pdf/hofquotes09.pdf.  (Contact: Shaun Adamec, 410-974-2316)